Cheesy Bacon Polenta Casserole (50-55 Minutes)

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This cheesy bacon polenta casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the creamy texture of polenta with the savory flavors of cheese and bacon.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy rich, comforting meals that warm you up from the inside out.

Topped with crispy bacon pieces and fresh parsley, it not only offers a delightful blend of flavors but also adds a beautiful presentation.

Ideal for family dinners or as a satisfying side dish, this casserole is sure to become a favorite for its ease of preparation and delicious taste.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup polenta
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve 2 slices for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven (5 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook Polenta (15 minutes): In a large saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta and salt. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until polenta is thickened and creamy, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, black pepper, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until well combined.
  3. Assemble Casserole (5 minutes): Pour the polenta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top, followed by the crumbled bacon (reserving some for garnish).
  4. Bake (20-25 minutes): Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden.
  5. Garnish and Serve (5 minutes): Garnish the baked casserole with the reserved crispy bacon pieces and fresh parsley. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a smoother polenta, continuously stir while cooking to prevent lumps. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses offers a nice blend of flavor and meltiness, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses according to your preference.

The crispy bacon not only adds a savory depth to the dish but also a delightful texture contrast. This casserole is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

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